The Silica Awareness Survey is the first of an annual piece of research, aligned with the Silica National Strategic Plan (SNSP), and designed to understand how Australians perceive and respond to the risks of respirable crystalline silica exposure. The survey is structured using a behaviourally-informed approach to investigate not just what people know, but how that knowledge translates into behaviour.
The survey targets 1600 participants across 3 key groups:
- Occupationally exposed workers (e.g. construction, mining)
- DIY/home renovators
- General population
By assessing people’s capabilities, opportunities, and motivations towards silica-safe behaviours, ASSEA can better target education and awareness campaigns towards at-risk groups and ensure meaningful behaviour change through tailored interventions that address real-world barriers and enablers. Data is being collected, with results expected in early 2026.